Computing Essentials

2006 Complete Edition

The OLeary Series

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Computing Essentials
2006 Complete Edition
Timothy J. OLeary
Arizona State University

Linda I. OLeary

Boston Burr Ridge, IL Dubuque, IA Madison, WI New York San Francisco St. Louis Bangkok Bogot Caracas Kuala Lumpur Lisbon London Madrid Mexico City Milan Montreal New Delhi Santiago Seoul Singapore Sydney Taipei Toronto

COMPUTING ESSENTIALS 2006, COMPLETE EDITION Published by McGraw-Hill/Technology Education, a business unit of The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc. 1221 Avenue of the Americas, New York, NY, 10020. Copyright 2006 by The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or distributed in any form or by any means, or stored in a database or retrieval system, without the prior written consent of The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc., including, but not limited to, in any network or other electronic storage or transmission, or broadcast for distance learning. Some ancillaries, including electronic and print components, may not be available to customers outside the United States. This book is printed on acid-free paper. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 0 QPD/QPD 0 9 8 7 6 5 ISBN 0-07-226110-2 Editor-in-chief: Robert Woodbury, Jr. Senior sponsoring editor: Donald J. Hull Freelance developmental editor: Jane Ducham Director of sales and marketing: Paul Murphy Marketing manager: Sankha Basu Lead media project manager: Edward Przyzycki Lead project manager: Lori Koetters Manager, new book production: Heather Burbridge Coordinator freelance design: Artemio Ortiz Jr. Photo research coordinator: Jeremy Chesherack Photo researcher: Keri Johnson Supplement producer: Matthew Perry Senior digital content specialist: Brian Nacik Cover design and interior icons: Asylum Studios Interior design: Artemio Ortiz, Jr. Typeface: 10/12 New Aster Compositor: Cenveo Printer: Quebecor World Dubuque Inc. Library of Congress Cataloging-in-Publication Data OLeary, Timothy J., 1947 Computing essentials 2006 / Timothy J. OLeary, Linda I. OLeary.Complete ed. p. cm (The OLeary series) ISBN 0-07-226110-2 (alk. paper) 1. Computers. 2. Electronic data processing. I. OLeary, Linda I. II. Title. QA76.5.O425 2006 004dc22 2004059280 www.mhhe.com

Brief Contents

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15

Information Technology, the Internet, and You

2 28

The Internet, the Web, and Electronic Commerce Basic Application Software
58 92

Specialized Application Software System Software The System Unit Input and Output Secondary Storage
120 148 178 210

Communications and Networks Privacy and Security Information Systems Databases

332 270 306

238

Systems Analysis and Design Programming and Languages

364 396 432

Your Future and Information Technology

The Evolution of the Computer Age

456 465 470

The Buyers Guide: How to Buy Your Own Microcomputer System

The Upgraders Guide: How to Upgrade Your Microcomputer System

Glossary Credits Index

474 501

504

Contents

1
INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY, THE INTERNET, AND YOU 2
Information Systems People 6
4

Making IT Work for You: Blocking Spam

38

Search Tools

Making IT Work for You: Information Technology Topics

Software

9 System Software 9 Application Software 9 Hardware 11 Types of Computers 11 Microcomputer Hardware Data 15

11

40 Search Engines 40 Metasearch Engines 41 Specialized Search Engines Electronic Commerce 42 Web Storefronts 43 Web Auctions 43 Security 44 Web Utilities 45 Telnet 45 FTP 45 Plug-ins 45 Filters 46

41

Connectivity, the Wireless Revolution, and the Internet 16

A Look to the Future: Using and Understanding Information Technology Means Being Computer Competent 17 Visual Summary 18 Key Terms 21 Chapter Review 22 Using Technology 25 Expanding Your Knowledge 26 Building Your Portfolio 27

A Look to the Future: Internet2 Is a HighPerformance Network 47 Visual Summary 48 Key Terms 51 Chapter Review 52 Using Technology 55 Expanding Your Knowledge 56 Building Your Portfolio 57

3
BASIC APPLICATION SOFTWARE
Application Software
60 Common Features 60 Web-based Applications 61 58

2
THE INTERNET, THE WEB, AND ELECTRONIC COMMERCE 28
The Internet and the Web Access 31
Providers 31 Browsers 31 30

Making IT Work for You: Speech Recognition 62

Word Processors
Features 64 Case 64

64

Spreadsheets
Features 67 Case 68

67

Communication

34 E-Mail 34 Instant Messaging 36 Discussion Groups 36

Database Management Systems

Features 72 Case 72

72

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Presentation Graphics
Features 75 Case 75

75

5
SYSTEM SOFTWARE
120

Integrated Packages
Case 77

77

Software Suites 78 Sharing Data between Applications

Copy and Paste 79 Object Linking and Embedding 79

System Software 122 Operating Systems 123

79 Functions 123 Features 123 Categories 124 Windows 126 Mac OS 127 UNIX and Linux 127 Utilities 128 Windows Utilities 128 Utility Suites 131 Device Drivers 133 Making IT Work for You: Virus Protection and Internet Security 134 A Look to the Future: IBM Builds an Aware Supercomputer 137

A Look to the Future: Web-based Application Software Updates Ease Maintenance 81 Visual Summary 82 Key Terms 85 Chapter Review 86 Using Technology 89 Expanding Your Knowledge 90 Building Your Portfolio 91

4
SPECIALIZED APPLICATION SOFTWARE 92
Specialized Applications Graphics 95
94

Visual Summary 138 Key Terms 140 Chapter Review 141 Using Technology 144 Expanding Your Knowledge 145 Building Your Portfolio 146

Desktop Publishing 95 Image Editors 95 Illustration Programs 95 Image Galleries 95 Graphics Suites 97 Audio and Video 97 Multimedia 98 Links and Buttons 99 Developing Multimedia Presentations Making IT Work for You: Digital Video Editing 100

6
THE SYSTEM UNIT
99 148 152

System Unit 150 Electronic Data and Instructions

Binary Coding Schemes 152 System Board 154 Microprocessor 156 Microprocessor Chips 156 Specialty Processors 157 Memory 158 RAM 158 ROM 159 CMOS 159 System Clock 160 Expansion Slots and Cards 160

Multimedia Authoring Programs 102 104 Web Site Design 104 Web Authoring Programs 104 Emerging Applications 105 Virtual Reality 107 Knowledge-based (Expert) Systems 107 Robotics 108

Web Authoring

A Look to the Future: The Future of Artificial Intelligence Is Emotional 109 Visual Summary 110 Key Terms 113 Chapter Review 114 Using Technology 117 Expanding Your Knowledge 118 Building Your Portfolio 119

Making IT Work for You: TV Tuner Cards and Video Clips 162

Bus Lines

164 Expansion Buses 164 Ports 165 Standard Ports 165 Cables 166 Power Supply 166

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Detailed Content

A Look to the Future: Xybernaut Corporation Makes Wearable Computers a Reality 167 Visual Summary 168 Key Terms 171 Chapter Review 172 Using Technology 175 Expanding Your Knowledge 176 Building Your Portfolio 177

Visual Summary 200 Key Terms 203 Chapter Review 204 Using Technology 207 Expanding Your Knowledge 208 Building Your Portfolio 209

8 7
INPUT AND OUTPUT
What Is Input? 180 Keyboard Entry 180
Keyboards 180 Features 181 178

SECONDARY STORAGE
Storage 212 Floppy Disks 212

210

Pointing Devices

182 Mouse 182 Joystick 183 Touch Screen 183 Light Pen 183 Stylus 184 Scanning Devices 184 Optical Scanners 184 Bar Code Readers 185 Character and Mark Recognition Devices Image Capturing Devices 186 Digital Camera 186 Digital Video Camera 186 Audio-Input Devices 187 Voice 187 Making IT Work for You: WebCams and Instant Messaging Music 190 190 188

Traditional Floppy Disk 213 High Capacity Floppy Disks 214 Hard Disks 215 Internal Hard Disk 215 Hard-Disk Cartridges 216 Hard-Disk Packs 216 Performance Enhancements 217 Optical Disks 219 Compact Disc 219 Digital Versatile Disc 220

Other Types of Secondary Storage

Solid-State Storage 185 221 Making IT Work for You: Music from the Internet 222 Internet Hard Drives 224 Magnetic Tape 225 Mass Storage Devices 225

221

A Look to the Future: Blu-Ray Technology and Plastic Memory Expected to Replace DVD 227 Visual Summary 228 Key Terms 231 Chapter Review 232 Using Technology 235 Expanding Your Knowledge 236 Building Your Portfolio 237

What Is Output? Monitors 190

Features 190 Cathode-Ray Tube 190 Flat-Panel Monitor 190 Other Monitors 190 Printers 193 Features 193 Ink-Jet Printer 194 Laser Printer 194 Thermal Printer 195 Other Printers 195 Audio-Output Devices 196

9
COMMUNICATIONS AND NETWORKS 238
Communications
196 240 Connectivity 240 The Wireless Revolution 240 Communication Systems 241 Communication Channels 242 Physical Connections 242 Wireless Connections 242

Combination Input and Output Devices

Fax Machines 196 Multifunction Devices 196 Internet Telephone 197 Terminals 197

A Look to the Future: Electronic Translators May Be in Your Future 199

Detailed Content

ix

Connection Devices
Modems 244 Connection Service

244 245 246

The Environment

293 The Green PC 294 Personal Responsibility

294

Data Transmission

Bandwidth 246 Protocols 247 Networks 247 Terms 247 Network Types 249 Local Area Networks 249 Home Networks 250 Metropolitan Area Networks Wide Area Networks 251 Network Architecture 251 Configurations 251 Strategies 255

A Look to the Future: Presence Technology Makes Finding People Easy 295 Visual Summary 296 Key Terms 299 Chapter Review 300 Using Technology 303 Expanding Your Knowledge 304 Building Your Portfolio 305

250

Making IT Work for You: Home Networking

252

11
INFORMATION SYSTEMS
Organizational Information Flow
Functions 308 Management Levels 310 Information Flow 310 306 308

Organizational Internets: Intranets and Extranets 257

Intranets 258 Extranets 258 Firewalls 258 A Look to the Future: Toyota and Sony Create Wireless Robotic Car 259 Visual Summary 260 Key Terms 263 Chapter Review 264 Using Technology 267 Expanding Your Knowledge 268 Building Your Portfolio 269

Computer-based Information Systems 312 Transaction Processing Systems 314 Management Information Systems 315 Decision Support Systems 316 Executive Support Systems 318 Other Information Systems 319
A Look to the Future: Information Overload A Case Study: Information Systems at DVD Direct 321 Visual Summary 322 Key Terms 324 Chapter Review 325 Using Technology 328 Expanding Your Knowledge 329 Building Your Portfolio 330 321

10
PRIVACY AND SECURITY
People 272 Privacy 273
Large Databases 274 Private Networks 276 The Internet and the Web 276 Major Laws on Privacy 278 Making IT Work for You: Spyware Removal 280 270

12
DATABASES
332

Security

282 Threats to Computer Security 282 Computer Criminals 282 Computer Crime 283 Other Hazards 287 Measures to Protect Computer Security Ergonomics 290 Physical Health 290 Mental Health 292 Design 292

Data 334 Data Organization

287

334 Key Field 336 Batch versus Real-Time Processing Databases 338 Need for Databases 339 Database Management 339 DBMS Structure 340 Hierarchical Database 341 Network Database 341 Relational Database 342 Multidimensional Database 343 Object-Oriented Database 344

336

Detailed Content

Types of Databases

345 Individual 345 Company or Shared 345 Distributed 346 Proprietary 346 Web Database 347 348 Strategic Uses 348 Security 348

Visual Summary 384 Key Terms 388 Chapter Review 389 Using Technology 392 Expanding Your Knowledge 393 Building Your Portfolio 394

Database Uses and Issues

A Case Study: Databases at DVD Direct 349 A Look to the Future: Xperanto Makes Database Searches Easier 350 Visual Summary 352 Key Terms 356 Chapter Review 357 Using Technology 360 Expanding Your Knowledge 361 Building Your Portfolio 362

14
PROGRAMMING AND LANGUAGES
Programs and Programming
What Is a Program? 398 What Is Programming? 398 398 396

Step 1: Program Specification

13
SYSTEMS ANALYSIS AND DESIGN
Systems Analysis and Design 366 Phase 1: Preliminary Investigation 367
Defining the Problem 368 Suggesting Alternative Systems 369 Preparing a Short Report 369 Phase 2: Analysis 370 Gathering Data 370 Analyzing the Data 371 Documenting Systems Analysis 374 Phase 3: Design 374 Designing Alternative Systems 375 Selecting the Best System 375 Writing the Systems Design Report 375 Phase 4: Development 376 Acquiring Software 376 Acquiring Hardware 376 Testing the New System 377 Phase 5: Implementation 377 Types of Conversion 377 Training 379 Phase 6: Maintenance 379 364

Prototyping and Rapid Applications Development 380

Prototyping 381 Rapid Applications Development A Look to the Future: Rapid Change 381 382

399 Program Objectives 400 Desired Output 400 Input Data 400 Processing Requirements 401 Document Program Specifications 401 Step 2: Program Design 401 Top-Down Program Design 402 Pseudocode 403 Flowcharts 403 Logic Structures 403 Step 3: Program Code 406 The Good Program 406 Coding 406 Step 4: Program Test 409 Syntax Errors 409 Logic Errors 409 Testing Process 409 Step 5: Program Documentation 410 Step 6: Program Maintenance 412 Operations 412 Changing Needs 412 CASE and OOP 413 CASE Tools 413 Object-Oriented Software Development 414 Generations of Programming Languages 414 Machine Languages: The First Generation 415 Assembly Languages: The Second Generation 415 High-Level Procedural Languages: The Third Generation 415 Problem-Oriented Languages: The Fourth Generation 416 Natural Languages and Visual Programming Languages: The Fifth Generation 417 A Look to the Future: MI-tech Takes the Pain Out of Programming 418 A Case Study: Programming at DVD Direct 419

A Case Study: Systems Analysis and Design at DVD Direct 383

Detailed Content

xi

Visual Summary 420 Key Terms 424 Chapter Review 425 Using Technology 428 Expanding Your Knowledge 429 Building Your Portfolio 430

Develop Specialties 442 Be Alert for Organizational Change 442 Look for Innovative Opportunities 443 A Look to the Future: Maintaining Computer Competency and Becoming Proactive 444 Visual Summary 446 Key Terms 449 Chapter Review 450 Using Technology 453 Expanding Your Knowledge 454 Building Your Portfolio 455

15
YOUR FUTURE AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY 432
Changing Times 434 Technology and Organizations
435 New Products 435 New Enterprises 436 New Customer and Supplier Relationships 436 Technology and People 437 Cynicism 437 Naivete 437 Frustration 437 Proactivity 438 How You Can Be a Winner 438 Stay Current 439 Maintain Your Computer Competency 439 Making IT Work for You: Locating Job Opportunities Online 440 Develop Professional Contacts 442

The Evolution of the Computer Age

456

The Buyers Guide: How to Buy Your Own Microcomputer System 465 The Upgraders Guide: How to Upgrade Your Microcomputer System 470 Glossary Credits Index
474 501 504

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Detailed Content

Preface
thing in those early conversations convinced them to write a book, to bring their interest in the learning process to the printed page. Today, they are as concerned as ever about learning, about technology, and about the challenges of presenting material in new ways, both in terms of content and the method of delivery. A powerful and creative team, Tim combines his years of classroom teaching experience with Lindas background as a consultant and corporate trainer. Tim has taught courses at Stark Technical College in Canton, Ohio, and at Rochester Institute of Technology in upstate New York, and is currently a professor at Arizona State University in Tempe, Arizona. Tim and Linda have talked to and taught students from 8 to 80, all of them with a desire to learn something about computers and the applications that make their lives easier, more interesting, and more productive. Each new edition of an OLeary text, supplement, or learning aid has benefited from these students and their instructors who daily stand in front of them (or over their shoulders). Computing Essentials is no exception.

INTRODUCTION
The 20th century not only brought us the dawn of the information age, but it also continued to bring us rapid changes in information technology. There is no indication that this rapid rate of change will be slowingit may even be increasing. As we begin the 21st century, computer literacy will undoubtedly become a prerequisite in whatever career a student chooses. The goal of Computing Essentials is to provide students with the basis for understanding the concepts necessary for success in the information age. Computing Essentials also endeavors to instill in students an appreciation for the effect of information technology on people and our environment and to give students a basis for building the necessary skill set to succeed in this new 21st century.

A WORD FROM THE AUTHORS

Times are changing, technology is changing, and this text is changing, too. Do you think the students of today are different from those of yesterday? Mine are, and Ill wager that yours are as well. On the positive side, I am amazed how much effort students put toward things that interest them and things they are convinced are relevant to them. Their effort directed at learning application programs and exploring the Web seems, at times, limitless. On the other hand, it is difficult to engage them in other equally important topics, such as personal privacy and technological advances. Ive changed the way I teach, and this book reflects that. I no longer lecture my students

ABOUT THE AUTHORS

Tim and Linda OLeary live in the American Southwest and spend much of their time engaging instructors and students in conversation about learning. In fact, they have been talking about learning for over 25 years. Some-

xiii

about how important certain concepts like microprocessors, input devices, and utility programs are. Rather, I begin by engaging their interest by presenting practical tips related to the key concepts, by demonstrating interesting applications that are relevant to their lives, and by focusing on outputs rather than processes. Then, I discuss the concepts and processes. Motivation and relevance are the keys. This text has several features specifically designed to engage students and to demonstrate the relevance of technology in their lives. These elements are combined with a thorough coverage of the concepts and sound pedagogical devices.

On the Web Explorations Within many of the chapters, two or more On the Web Explorations are presented as marginal elements. These explorations encourage students to connect to carefully selected Web sites that provide additional information on key topics. The objective of the Web Explorations is to encourage students to expand their knowledge by using Web resources.
On the Web Explorations To learn more about one of the leaders in developing continuousspeech systems, visit our Web site at www.olearyseries.com/CE06 and select On the Web Explorations.

Tips Within many of the chapters, Tips are provided that offer advice on a variety of chapter-related issues, such as how to efficiently locate information on the Web, how to speed up computer operations, and how to protect against computer viruses. One objective of the Tips is to provide students with assistance on common technology-related problems or issues. The other objective is to motivate students by showing that the concepts presented in the chapter are relevant to their everyday lives.
Have you ever bought anything online? If not, its likely that in the future you will join the millions who have. Here are a few suggestions on how to shop online:

TIPS

1 Consult product review sites. To get evaluations or opinions

on products, visit one of the many review sites on the Web such as www.consumersearch.com and www.epinions.com.

2 Use a shopping bot. Once you have selected a specific

SELECTED FEATURES OF THIS BOOK

Visual Chapter Openers Each chapter begins with a two-page Visual Chapter Opener with large graphics and brief text. The graphics present the structure and organization of the chapter. The text relates the graphics to topics that are covered in the chapter and discusses their importance. The objective of the visual chapter openers is to engage students and provide relevancy and motivation.

product, enlist a shopping bot or automated shopping assistants to compare prices. Two well-known shopping bots are located at www.mysimon.com and www.shopping.yahoo.com.

3 Consult vendor review sites. Of course, price is not

everything. Before placing an order with a vendor, check their reputation by visiting vendor review sites such as www.gomez.com and www.bizrate.com.

4 Select payment option. Once you have selected the product

and the vendor, the final step is to order and pay. Security of your credit card number is critical. Consider payment options available from www.private.buy.com and www.americanexpress.com/privatepayments.

xiv

Preface

 Concept Checks Every chapter contains strategically placed Concept Check boxes. Each box contains questions related to the material just presented. The objective of these Concept Checks is to provide students the opportunity to test their retention of key chapter concepts.

strate the relevance and importance of information systems, databases, systems analysis and design, and programming. A Look to the Future Each chapter concludes with a brief discussion of a specific recent technological advancement related to material presented in the chapter. The objective of this feature is to remind students that technology is always changing and to reinforce the importance of staying informed of recent changes.

I CONCEPT CHECK
Y Y What is a information system? What is required of a competent end user?

Making IT Work for You Based on student surveys, 11 special interest topics have been identified. These topics include downloading music from the Internet, creating personal Web sites, and using the Internet to place free long-distance telephone calls. Each of these 11 special interest topics is presented in a two-page Making IT Work for You section within the relevant chapter. The objective is to engage students by presenting high-interest topics and to motivate them to learn about related concepts in the chapter.

Visual Chapter Summaries Each chapter ends with a multipage visual chapter summary. Like the chapter openers, the summaries use graphics to present the structure of the chapter and text to provide specifics. Using a columnar arrangement, major concepts are represented by graphics followed by detailed text summaries. The objective of the visual chapter summaries is to provide a detailed summary of key concepts and terms in an engaging and meaningful way. Using Technology Every chapter has Web- related end-of-chapter exercises that direct students to explore current popular uses of technology. In most cases, the first question requires the student to review the chapters Making IT Work for You features and to respond to a series of related questions. Other questions require Web research. One objective of the Using Technology feature is to provide support for instructors who would like to expose their students to the Making IT Work for You features without using class time. The other objective is to provide a powerful tool that engages and motivates students with assignments related to technology that is directly applicable to them.

Using IT at DVD Direct Many students find information systems concepts to be very challenging. A series of four cases focused on DVD Direct, a fictitious Web-based movie rental company, have been created. The cases are introduced at the end of Chapters 11, 12, 13, and 14. The complete cases are on the Computing Essentials CD and at our Web site, www.olearyseries.com/CE06. They have been written to allow instructors to skip all or some of the cases without losing continuity. The objective of the cases is to engage students in an interesting current application of technology and to demon-

Preface

xv

 Expanding Your Knowledge Every chapter has Web-related end-of-chapter exercises directing students to enhance their depth of knowledge on specific technologies introduced in the chapter. In most cases, one question requires the students to use their free Computing Essentials CD and to respond to a series of related questions. Other questions require Web research into carefully selected topics. One objective of the Expanding Your Knowledge feature is to provide support for instructors who want their students to effectively use the Computing Essentials CD and one Web site. The other objective is to support instructors who want their students to obtain greater indepth understanding of key technologies.

understand, and analyze key privacy, security, and ethical issues relating to technology.

Engaging Students Having all these features is one thing. Making the students aware of them is another. As in almost all textbooks, Chapter 1 of this textbook provides an overview and framework for the following chapters. Unlike other textbooks, our Chapter 1 also provides a discussion and overview of each of the above engaging features. One objective of this approach is to support instructors who want to focus their students attention on any one or on a combination of features. The other objective is to motivate students by highlighting features that are visually interesting and relevant to their lives. Computing Essentials CD Throughout the pages of the text you will see references to Computing Essentials CD. This is a set of reference materials including tips, animations, videos, self tests, careers in IT, and more. The materials can be accessed from either of two sources. One source is from the Computing Essentials CD. The other source is our Web site at www.olearyseries.com/ CE06. Students have the flexibility to use either or both of these sources. For example, a student who does not have convenient access to a high speed Internet connection would likely choose to view videos from the Computing Essentials CD. If a student were to lose the Computing Essentials CD, he or she would still have access to all materials from our Web site.

Building Your Portfolio Every chapter has Web-related end-of-chapter exercises directing students to prepare and to write a one- or two-page paper on critical technology-related issues. Some questions require students to summarize and analyze select emerging technologies addressed in the chapter. Other questions focus on a critical chapter-related privacy, security, and/or ethical issue. Students are required to consider, evaluate, and formulate a position. One objective of the Building Your Portfolio feature is to support instructors who want their students to develop critical thinking and writing skills. Another objective is to provide support for instructors who want their students to create written document(s) recording their technology knowledge. A third objective is to provide support for instructors who want their students to recognize,

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Preface

Instructors Guide
RESOURCES FOR INSTRUCTORS
We understand that in todays teaching environment offering a textbook alone is not sufficient to meet the needs of the many different instructors who use our books. To teach effectively, instructors must have a full complement of supplemental resources to assist them in every facet of teaching from preparing for class, to presenting lectures, to assessing students comprehension. Computing Essentials offers a complete, fully integrated supplements package as described below. prehensive resource for use during lecture. They include a review of key terms and definitions, figures from the text, new illustrations, anticipated student questions with answers, and additional resources. Also included with the slides are comprehensive speakers notes. Testbank The Computing Essentials testbank, carefully prepared by Margaret Trenholm-Edmonds of Mt. Allison University, contains over 2,200 questions categorized by level of learning (definition, concept, and application). This is the same learning scheme that is introduced in the text to provide a valuable testing and reinforcement tool. The test questions are identified by text page number to assist you in planning your exams, and rationales for each answer are also included. Additional quizzes, which can be used as pretests and posttests in class, can be found on the Online Learning Center at www.olearyseries.com/CE06.

Instructors Resource Kit

The Instructors Resource Kit CD-ROM contains the Instructors Manual, PowerPoint slides, and Examview Pro test generation software with accompanying test item files for each chapter and 20 video clips (with summaries) from G4techTV. The distinctive features of each component of the Instructors Resource Kit are described below. Instructors Manual The Instructors Manual has been prepared by William Hitchcock, associate professor of accounting & business and department chair at Loras College. The manual contains lecture outlines with teaching notes and page references. It contains definitions of key terms and answers to the various end-of-chapter questions such as multiple choice, matching, and open-ended. It also summarizes the concept checks and key figures in each chapter. Professor Hitchcock also assisted with selection of the G4techTV video clips that accompany this text, and he prepared the user summaries for these clips. PowerPoint Presentation The PowerPoint slides, by Brenda Nielsen of Mesa Community CollegeRed Mountain, are designed to provide instructors with a com-

G4techTVVideo Series from McGraw-Hill Technology Education

McGraw-Hill Technology Education is pleased to continue its relationship with G4techTV. Through this partnership, we are able to offer instructors and students new video content directly related to computing that enhances the classroom or lab experience with technology programming from business and society. Video selections from G4techTV programs such as The Screen Savers and Pulse are sometimes edgy and always informative. Use of these videos will help students understand how computing interacts with and contributes to business and society and will also offer an advance look at emerging technology and devices. These new videos have been developed with the guidance

xvii

of professors Donald L. Amoroso of Appalachian State University and William Hitchcock of Loras College. Professors Amoroso and Hitchcock are active teachers of large sections and have selected video segments from G4techTV that they know will work in the classroom. Written guidance on how to best use these videos is included in the Instructors Resource Kit to facilitate learning. This series gives instructors and students more power for teaching and learning in the computing classroom!

Online Courses AvailableOLCs are your perfect solutions for Internet-based content. Simply put, these courses are digital cartridges that contain a books pedagogy and supplements. As students read the book, they can go online and take self-grading quizzes or work through interactive exercises. These also provide students with appropriate access to lecture materials and other key supplements. Blackboard.com WebCT (a product of Universal Learning Technology)

SimNet Concepts 1.5

SimNet is an interactive program for student learning and assessment on 77 key computer concepts. SimNet includes a learning or tutorial presentation of each of these 77 concepts and includes both practice and assessment exam questions for each one. Students gain a greater understanding of the wide range of computer concepts using this learning and assessment program by employing a learning sequence of Teach Me, Show Me, Let Me Try. SimNet Concepts 1.5 is available in an optional bundle with the text for a modest additional charge.

OLeary Series Applications Textbooks

The OLeary Series computer applications textbooks for Microsoft Office are available separately, or packaged with Computing Essentials. The OLeary Series offers a step-by-step approach to developing computer applications skills and is available in both brief and introductory versions. The introductory books are MOS Certified and prepare students for the Microsoft Office User Certification Exam.

Skills Assessment for Office Applications

SimNet (Simulated Network Assessment Product) provides a way for you to test students software skills in a simulated environment. SimNet is available for Microsoft Office 2003. SimNet provides flexibility for you in your applications course by offering: Pretesting options Posttesting options Course placement testing Diagnostic capabilities to reinforce skills Proficiency testing to measure skills Web or LAN delivery of tests Computer-based training tutorials (new for Office XP) MOS preparation exams Learning verification reports Spanish version For more information on skills assessment software, please contact your local sales representative, or visit us at www.mhhe.com.

Computing Essentials Student CD & Web Site www.olearyseries.com/CE06

The Computing Essentials Student CD contains animations of key concepts, videos relating to select Making IT Work for You applications, and in-depth coverage of select topics. Computing Essentials Interactive icons are located in the margins throughout the book to alert students that expanded coverage of the material in the text can be found on their Computing Essentials CD and on the Computing Essentials Web site.

Digital Solutions to Help You Manage Your Course

Online Learning CentersThe Online Learning Center that accompanies Computing Essentials is accessible at www.olearyseries.com/ CE06. This site provides additional learning and instructional tools developed using the same three-level approach found in the text and supplements. This offers a consistent method for students to enhance their comprehension of the concepts presented in the text. The student section also houses the G4techTV video clips.

xviii

Instructors Guide

Students Guide
STUDENTS GUIDE TO THE OLEARY LEARNING SYSTEM
and another shows how to capture, save, and play music from the Internet. Many learning aids are built into the text to Recently, at the end of the semester, some of ensure your success with the material and to my students stopped by my office to say they make the process of learning enjoyed the class and that they rewarding. In the pages that Heres my promise to you: learned something that they follow, we call your attention could actually use. High In the following pages you to the key features in the text. praise indeed for a professor! will find things that you can We also show you supplemenActually, I had mixed feelings. tal materials, such as the stuactually use now and that Of course, it felt good to learn dent Online Learning Center, that my students had enjoyed will provide a foundation for that you should take advanthe course. However, it hurt a understanding future tage of to ensure your success bit that they were surprised in this course. technological advances. that they learned something useful. As you read the text, notice the Tips scattered throughout the book. These tips offer suggestions on a variety of topics from the basics of cleaning a monitor to how to make your computer run faster and smoother. Also, notice the Making IT Work for You sections that demonstrate some specific computer applications you might find interesting. For example, one demonstrates how to capture and use television video clips for electronic presentations

xx

What makes Computing Essentials such a powerful tool?

Visual Chapter Openers
Each chapter begins with a two-page opening spread that provides the Chapter Competencies and a brief introduction to the chapter. Graphics present the structure and organization of the chapter visually, while text discusses the topics that will be covered and their importance.

Key Terms
Throughout the text, the most important terms are presented in bold type and are defined within the text. You will also find a list of key terms at the end of each chapter and in the glossary at the end of the book.

xx

How does Computing Essentials use the Web and provide practical real world tips?

Tips
Tips appear within nearly every chapter and are provided to offer advice on a variety of chapter-related issues, such as how to efficiently locate information on the Web, how to speed up computer operations, and how to protect against computer viruses. Tips assist you with common technology-related problems or issues and motivate you by showing the relevance of concepts presented in the chapter to everyday life.

On the Web Explorations

Two or more On the Web Explorations appear within nearly every chapter and are presented as marginal elements. These explorations ask you to connect to carefully selected Web sites that provide additional information on key topics, encouraging you to expand your knowledge by using Web resources.

Computing Essentials Web site

Throughout the text, the Computing Essentials Web site at www.olearyseries.com/CE06 is referenced. The text directs you to this Web site for additional material, Web links, and exercises to boost interest and enhance your comprehension of the material.

xxii

How does Computing Essentials get you involved in current technologies?

Making IT Work for You
Special interest topics are presented in a two-page Making IT Work for You section within the chapter relating to that topic. These topics include protecting against computer viruses, downloading music from the Internet, and using the Internet to place free longdistance telephone calls.

Making IT Work Figures

Several critical technologies are presented in full page figures. These figures show how the technologies work and how they are used. These figures include How Digital Cameras Work, How Instant Messenging Works, How Home Networks Work, and more. Additionally, several of these topics are animated and presented on the Computing Essentials CD or on our Web site.

xxi

How does Computing Essentials teach you about the future in information technology?
Careers in IT
Some of the fastest growing career opportunities in information technology are presented in the Computing Essentials CD. These descriptions include job titles, responsibilities, educational requirements, and salary ranges. Among the careers covered are Webmaster, software engineer, and database administrator. You will learn how the material you are studying relates directly to a potential career path.

A Look to the Future

Each chapter concludes with a brief discussion of a recent technological advancement related to the chapter material, reinforcing the importance of staying informed.

xxiv

How does Computing Essentials reinforce key concepts?

Visual Chapter Summaries
These summaries appear in at least two pages at the end of each chapter. Using a columnar arrangement, major concepts are presented by graphics followed by detailed text summaries, providing a summary of key concepts and terms in an engaging and meaningful way.

Using IT at DVD DirectA Case Study

Beginning in Chapter 11 and continuing through Chapter 15, Using IT at DVD DirectA Case Study is an up-close look at what you might expect to find on the job in the real world. You will follow Alice, a recent college graduate hired as a marketing analyst, as she navigates her way through Accounting, Marketing, Production, Human Resources and Research, gathering and processing data to help manage and accelerate the growth of the three-year-old company. This case study is supported with end-of-chapter exercises and the Computing Essentials CD.

Concept Check
Located at points throughout each chapter, the Concept Check cues you to note which topics have been covered and to self-test your understanding of the material.

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How does Computing Essentials help you to evaluate your knowledge of the material in each chapter?
Chapter Review
Following the Visual Summary, the chapter Review includes material designed to review and reinforce chapter content. It includes a Key Terms List that reiterates the terms presented in the chapter, a Crossword Puzzle to challenge your understanding of the chapter material, Multiple Choice questions to help test your recall of information presented in the chapter. Matching exercises to test your recall of terminology presented in the chapter, and Open-Ended questions or statements to help review your understanding of the key concepts presented in the chapter.

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How does Computing Essentials encourage you to develop and utilize critical thinking skills?
Using Technology

In each chapter, Using Technology presents two questions design to help you gain a better understanding of how technology is be used today. One question typically relates the chapters Making IT Work for You topics. The other question focuses on interesting applications of technology that relate directly to you. Topics include: Online Auctions, Online Personal Information Managers, and Desktop and Notebook Computers.

Expanding Your Knowledge

In each chapter, Expanding Your Knowledge presents two questions that help you gain a deeper understanding of select topics. Typically, one question relates to a topic contained on your Computing Essentials CD, such as How Instant Messaging Works, How Streaming Media Works, and How Virus Protection Works. The other question in Expanding Your Knowledge typically relates to Web research into carefully selected topics including robotics, multimedia, HDTV, and Internet hard drives.

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How does Computing Essentials help you create a portfolio that demonstrates your knowledge of technology?

Building Your Portfolio

The first question in Building Your Portfolio relates to key technologies. Topics include electronic commerce, artificial intelligence, Linux, microprocessors, digital input, and firewalls. The second question in Building Your Portfolio relates to security, privacy, and ethical issues. The issues presented include: HTML source code, antitrust legislation, processor serial numbers, CD-R and music files, and electronic monitoring. One objective of the Building Your Portfolio feature is to help you develop critical thinking and writing skills. Another objective is to help you create written documents recording your technology knowledge. A third objective is to help you recognize, understand, and analyze key privacy, security, and ethical issues relating to technology.

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How do the Computing Essentials Interactive Web site and CD that accompany Computing Essentials work with the text to enhance learning?

Computing Essentials Interactive

Throughout the book you will find numerous references to Computing Essentials Interactive. This feature provides a variety of interesting and valuable reference materials. For your convenience, you can access these materials either from your Computing Essentials CD or from our Web site at www.olearyseries.com/CE06. Some of the features are Animations, Expansions, and Videos as discussed below.

Animations
Numerous Animations depicting how select technologies work and how they are used are provided. Animations cover such topics as digital video cameras, virus protection programs, and Spyware.

Expansions
The coverage of several critical topics from the book has been expanded. These Expansions include digital video editing, virtual memory, and identity theft.

Videos
Several current and interesting Videos are provided. Video topics include identity theft, cyber crime, and Internet scams.

Computing Essentials
2006 Complete Edition